We often say, “Hindsight is 20/20”, yet do we ever take the time to denounce the false messages we’ve embraced for years? Or do we merely forge ahead without going any deeper, afraid of what might come to the surface?

On my journey to rest, Jesus is uncovering some falsehoods I’ve had about myself and rest.  As He’s doing this, my heart is unraveling and years of walls are crumbling. Behind these walls is a heart longing to just BE.  A heart longing for rest and contentment, in Jesus.

As a result of my heart unraveling, I decided it was time to write a letter to my younger self, denouncing the lies I’ve been embracing about myself and rest.

A Letter to My Younger Self

Dear Satin,

You are beautiful-just the way you are.
You don’t have to be a model to be perfect.
You don’t have to do anything to be loved.
In a world torn apart by anger and hatred,
Your smile and tender heart make you beautiful.

I know you don’t believe it now, but time passes quickly.
Don’t rush through life wishing for tomorrow;
Tomorrow will come quickly enough.
Just as quickly as the day arrives, it will pass.
Enjoy today. Live it to the fullest!

It’s okay to set goals, but remember to embrace today.
Savor each moment, don’t wish it away.
When you reach a goal, relish the moment.
Don’t meagerly celebrate, while shooting for the next goal.
Take joy in your accomplishments!
You did great! Be happy!

Don’t be ashamed of your gifts.
Using your gifts, doesn’t make you prideful.
Using your gifts, means embracing who God made, in you.
You don’t need to gloat, but it’s okay to embrace your gifts.
Be thankful for your gifts & return them to God, for His glory.

Don’t trust everyone; Guard your heart. (Like your Mom says!)
It’s good to be tenderhearted, but guard your heart.
Reserve the deepest part of your heart for Jesus;
Render Him Captain & never release it to any other.
No one will guard it any better, or steer it more perfectly.
Listen to His voice and follow His lead.

Understand that forgiveness often means letting go.
Letting go of the one(s) who hurt you.
Letting go of the pain & anger.
Letting go of the disappointment(s).
Letting go doesn’t mean you’re quitting!
Letting go means you deserve better and you’re moving on!

It’s okay to make mistakes!
You’re not bound to the mistakes you made,
You’re bound to your Forgiving Maker.
Let go of the guilt. Embrace Forgiveness.
Forgive yourself as easily as you forgive others.

Take time to rest
It’s okay to relax, even with looming “to do” lists.
It’s okay to steal away, and enjoy alone time.
It’s okay not to participate in everything you’re asked to do.
It’s okay to say “no”.

Saying no doesn’t make you a bad person.
Saying no doesn’t mean you’re weak.
Saying no doesn’t mean you’re incapable.
Saying no is the most powerful thing you can do for you!
Saying no frees you from being bound by expectations.
Just say no!

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How about you, friend?

Is there a falsehood you have embraced about yourself or rest that needs to be changed? I’d love to hear your story, or pray with you on your journey. Feel free to comment below, message me privately, or join us for Bonnie’s Whitespace Linkup.